BOULDER, Colo — Boulder's own Flatiron Freddy emerged from his hiding spot Friday morning via dog sled and did not see his shadow, meaning an early spring.
Flatiron Freddy is a deceased, stuffed, fur-damaged yellow-bellied marmot who – with the help of its handlers – always arrives in a surprising way at the Chautauqua Ranger Station to declare to the world whether or not he sees his shadow.
Community members gathered to welcome Flatiron Freddy about 8 a.m. Friday.
It's all in good fun. As many people point out no matter what various rodents and their handlers predict on Groundhog Day, spring will begin on March 19 this year. No doubt about it, Boulder's Open Space and Mountain Parks department has a lot of fun with the annual tradition.
Flatiron Freddy became a Groundhog Day weather prognosticator more than a decade ago. He was enjoying a peaceful afterlife in Flagstaff Nature Center when he was accidentally left out during the winter instead of being stored with the other mounts. His fur was damaged, and he was dumped in the garbage.
But Ranger Dave Gustafson saw potential in Freddy. He pulled him from the trash, gave him a top hat, and a legend was born.
In previous years, Freddy has arrived for his big moment by canoe, fire engine, bobsled, skis and a zipline. And he always comes dressed for the occasion.
Over the past seven years, Freddy has seen his shadow five times. The last time he didn't see his shadow was in 2022. The forecast for Friday calls for clouds, so it's possible Freddy will have good news for those who love an early spring.
Flatiron Freddy through the years
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